Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

Electric Bugaloo would have been a better name.

Like to cook? Here’s the recipe for a Volkswagen E-Bugster concept. You’ll have to build one at home if you’re interested—having an assembly line and a few experienced friends around would help—because it’s not going to be offered in stores.

Step One: Prepare Your Beetle

Start with one store-bought Volkswagen Beetle. Carefully pluck out gasoline engine. Peel back roof; remove windshield and set aside.

Step Two: Install Motor

Stuff your Beetle with electric powertrain from upcoming Golf blue-e-motion. Place 114-hp electric motor up front. Connect motor to front wheels through a single-speed transmission, available from many major auto suppliers. Be sure the transmission can handle 199 lb-ft of torque.

Step Three: Add Batteries

Scoop rear seat out of Beetle and then slowly pile in the battery pack. It weighs more than 700 pounds, so we suggest throwing some chains over the exposed beam in your garage and making a hoist. After battery pack is in, replace rear seats.

Step Four: Decorate

Dressing up the interior is really up to you. Volkswagen suggests a set of sport seats, aluminum door handles, and lots of white and blue mood lighting.

Step Five: Top with New Roof

Use standard kitchen plasma cutter to remove 2.8 inches from C-pillar, and trim the windshield you saved in Step One to match. Allow to cool and then replace roof panel, welding new seams.

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